LOCAL medical graduate Nignauna Gagahe was awarded a gold medal for academic excellence, after successfully completing his medical studies late last month in Cuba.
According to reports reaching the Solomon Star, Gagahe was among the top five students to receive gold medals for academic excellence.
He was the only Solomon Islander to receive an academic gold medal.
Gagahe, of Isabel and Western parentage, was one of 22 medical students who graduated with degrees in Cuba.
Minister of Education, Dick Ha’amori who was in Cuba to witness the graduation of the 22 students, handed Gagahe his gold medal, expressing the government’s praise in his achievement and that of his fellow graduates.
Mr Ha’amori said that such commitment, dedication and hard work not only shown by Gagahe but by the rest of the graduates should be viewed as an example to many aspiring doctors in the country.
He added that it was indeed encouraging to see Solomon Islanders fulfil their dreams in successfully completing their degrees and begin their lifelong career of providing medical expertise and service to Solomon Islanders in the future.
Mr Ha’amori also urged the returning graduates that much is expected of them and called on them to put their country and people first on their return and not to be lured by external financial offers.
“Serve your people and make the necessary health transformation in the country,” Mr Ha’amori said.
In response to the Minister’s remarks and speaking on behalf of the graduates, Gagahe assured the minister that they will plant green grass at home rather than seek greener pastures elsewhere.
Gagahe also called on both the government and the people of Solomon Islands to have faith in them.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
